Headlines From The Times

California officials urge caution along the coast after an 8.8 earthquake off Russia’s east coast sparks tsunami advisories and beach closures, even as warnings ease by midday. Meanwhile in Ukraine, Russian missile strikes kill three soldiers and wound 18 at a training base near Kyiv. With recruitment challenges mounting and civilian casualties rising, Ukraine faces mounting pressure as President Trump’s peace talks deadline approaches. We cover the latest updates from the Pacific coastline to the front lines in Eastern Europe. LAPD’s quiet cooperation with federal immigration raids sparks debate over civil rights and local trust. Kamala Harris announces she won’t run for California governor, leaving Democrats searching for a strong contender. The U.S. economy shows solid second quarter growth but faces troubling signs ahead, from shrinking imports to rising inflation. And Apple loses another top AI researcher to Meta, deepening concerns over its competitive future. Stay with us for these stories and more from the LA Times.

UCLA settles a $6.45 million lawsuit from Jewish students over pro-Palestinian protests they say excluded them from campus life. California and other states sue the Trump administration to keep Planned Parenthood’s Medicaid funding for essential health services. A January wildfire in Los Angeles could cost as much as $51.7 billion in home damages alone. And an El Segundo startup unveils a robot that blends AI and Japanese tradition to make sashimi more humanely and affordably.

Wallis Annenberg, whose decades of giving transformed Los Angeles’ cultural and civic life, has died at 86, leaving behind a profound legacy across education, healthcare, and the arts. Meanwhile, President Trump escalates pressure on Vladimir Putin to end the war in Ukraine, cutting a 50-day peace deadline to less than two weeks after renewed Russian attacks.Lawyers sue Florida’s “Alligator Alcatraz” detention center over detainees held without charges. California and other states take on the USDA for demanding personal data from SNAP recipients. Thousands of Stater Bros. grocery workers authorize a strike across Southern California stores over labor disputes. And a dating safety app suffers a major data breach, exposing tens of thousands of user images and IDs.

California moves to fill a critical gap in disaster research after the Trump administration slashes EPA funding. State Democrats then weigh redrawing congressional maps to challenge GOP efforts in Texas. Lyft plans to roll out autonomous shuttles next year, aiming to catch up in the robotaxi race. And Activision Blizzard takes cheat developers to court worldwide, hoping to curb rampant hacking in Call of Duty. Four stories showing how policy, technology, and the courts shape life and business today.

UCLA researchers install sensors to protect Palisades residents from post-fire air pollution. A federal appeals court strikes down California’s voter-approved background checks for ammunition, citing Second Amendment rights. Food delivery robots roll out across Los Angeles, sparking debate over convenience and jobs. And despite Amazon’s extended Prime Day, shoppers turn to Walmart for better deals on everyday essentials. Four stories tracking health, law, technology, and shifting consumer habits across California.

President Trump imposes a 15% tariff on Japanese goods as part of a new trade deal he claims will create hundreds of thousands of jobs, while warning the EU of more tariffs ahead. Meanwhile, a Times investigation into January’s deadly West Altadena fire reveals critical delays and misallocated resources left residents largely unprotected during the worst hours. A judge blocks the Trump administration’s effort to unseal Jeffrey Epstein’s grand jury records in Florida. Another court stops ICE from immediately detaining Kilmar Abrego Garcia after a wrongful deportation. Uber tests a women-only ride option in California aimed at safer travel. And the White House launches an AI plan to cut regulations and speed development, drawing support from tech leaders and criticism from civil rights and environmental groups. Four stories shaping law, policy, and technology in the U.S. today.

Israeli airstrikes kill at least 20 people in Gaza, including women and children, as Christian leaders call for an end to the nearly 21-month war. The Trump administration pressures Israel to conclude the conflict after a deadly church strike, while ceasefire talks in Qatar stall. Meanwhile, the U.S. announces it will leave UNESCO again, citing alleged anti-Israel bias and divisive agendas—just two years after rejoining. Erik Menendez, imprisoned for the 1989 killing of his parents, seeks early release to treat a serious medical condition ahead of a parole hearing that could test his life sentence. Meanwhile, Ghislaine Maxwell moves for prison relief from her sex-trafficking conviction as the Justice Department plans to meet with her lawyers and considers new subpoenas. Public and political pressure grows for answers in the Epstein case, even as Congress leaves Washington without voting to release more related files.

Britain, France, and 23 other countries demand an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, accusing Israel of blocking aid and worsening the humanitarian disaster. Meanwhile, Russia launches one of its largest air attacks on Kyiv in months, killing civilians and damaging shelters just before NATO meets to weigh President Trump’s plan to arm Ukraine. California sues the Trump administration over restrictions that block undocumented immigrants from vital public benefits. The Pentagon pulls Marines out of Los Angeles after protests against immigration raids. The FDA appoints biotech executive George Tidmarsh to lead drug regulation under RFK Jr., amid calls for reform. And In-N-Out owner Lynsi Snyder announces she’s leaving California, joining a wave of businesses moving east while the burger chain keeps its roots on the West Coast.

Los Angeles County reports a second year of declining homelessness, but progress remains slow as looming federal cuts threaten housing aid for over a million low-income renters. Meanwhile, Californians turn to personal firefighting devices to protect their homes, sparking debate over safety and effectiveness. Plus, a federal court blocks the FTC’s “click-to-cancel” rule, leaving consumers to find new ways to end unwanted subscriptions.

The U.S. Justice Department demands lists of all noncitizen inmates from California jails, challenging the state’s sanctuary laws and threatening subpoenas if counties don’t comply. Meanwhile, the University of California considers raising its annual tuition increase cap from 5% to 7% to address budget cuts, inflation, and reduced federal support. Critics worry the plan focuses more on revenue than student aid, while a cohort-based tuition freeze is set to expire in 2026.

At least 20 Palestinians die in a stampede at a Gaza food distribution site, with conflicting accounts of what triggered the deadly panic. Meanwhile, President Trump shocks his own supporters by dismissing demands to release Jeffrey Epstein’s client list, calling it a “Democrat hoax.” The U.S. sends migrants from Jamaica and Cuba to Eswatini under new third-country deportation deals. California’s National Weather Service faces dangerous staffing cuts as wildfire season intensifies. San Francisco and San Jose emerge as national leaders in AI innovation, while Los Angeles ranks close behind. And downtown LA businesses call for help to recover from immigration raids, tariffs, and pandemic-related losses. Listen for these stories and more from LA Times Studios.

USC warns of major layoffs and pay adjustments to close a $200 million deficit, citing falling federal support and international enrollment, while staff blame costly campus projects. Meanwhile, President Trump sends more U.S. weapons to Ukraine and gives Moscow 50 days to agree to peace or face new sanctions. Trump faces backlash from his base over conspiracy theories demanding an Epstein list the DOJ says doesn’t exist. Courts block his immigration raids in Southern California, ruling agents can’t target people by race or language alone. Meanwhile, Nextdoor struggles to revive its app with AI and news partnerships after stock losses, and SpaceX plans to use Starship for in-orbit drug research. Together, these stories show political turmoil and bold business moves shaping headlines.

UC Berkeley’s chancellor prepares to testify before Congress as lawmakers investigate antisemitism and federal probes target universities nationwide. Meanwhile, a worker dies fleeing a federal immigration raid on a Camarillo pot farm that led to hundreds of detentions, sparking debate over enforcement tactics. We look at how civil rights, campus politics, and immigration enforcement collide as pressure mounts on schools and communities across the country. The Supreme Court allows President Trump to overhaul the Education Department, drawing praise from his administration and sharp criticism from educators. Trump gives Russia 50 days to end the war in Ukraine or face new tariffs targeting its trade partners. Teen developers on Roblox earn millions as the platform relaxes ownership rules. And Elon Musk plans to direct Tesla investments into his AI company, XAI, while assuring shareholders the two firms will remain separate despite controversy.

California officials warn that federal budget cuts are undermining critical wildfire prevention and water programs—but say the state is fighting back. With the 2028 Olympics approaching, tourism leaders are working to boost California’s image despite safety concerns and financial risks. We also look at how AI chatbots are complicating disaster misinformation, and report on Tesla’s first deliveries to India as it seeks to tap into the country’s growing auto market.

Los Angeles County launches an investigation after a sanitation tunnel collapse traps 31 workers underground. Governor Gavin Newsom tours South Carolina, drawing both praise and criticism over his national ambitions. Meanwhile, Hollywood’s soundstage operators hope new state tax credits will revive production after a historic slowdown. Plus, a watchdog warns of a 400% surge in AI-generated child abuse imagery, calling for urgent regulation. Stay tuned for these stories and more from the LA Times newsroom.

Protesters in Santa Monica rally against Trump’s immigration raids and question the legacy of hometown figure Stephen Miller. California farmers dismiss claims that machines or Medicaid recipients can replace undocumented workers and urge legalization for essential labor. Homicides in Los Angeles fall 20%, setting the city on pace for its lowest total since 1968 despite LAPD budget concerns. Officials failed to act on federal disaster warnings before fires in L.A. and floods in Texas, delaying evacuation orders. Mattel debuts its first Barbie with Type 1 diabetes to reflect more children’s experiences. Linda Yaccarino steps down as CEO of Elon Musk’s X amid advertiser exits and controversy over antisemitic posts by the platform’s AI chatbot.

The Supreme Court allows Trump to move forward with mass federal layoffs, while L.A. cracks down on “renovictions” to protect tenants. In tech, Meta poaches a top AI executive from Apple. Governor Newsom demands long-term disaster aid as a new lawsuit threatens funding for Latino and low-income college students. And Amazon’s Prime Day sees slower sales and fewer discounts amid rising tariffs.

Seven are confirmed dead after a pyrotechnics warehouse explosion in Northern California. Firefighters battle the Madre Fire, the state’s largest blaze of the year. President Trump signs a sweeping spending bill that boosts military and immigration enforcement while cutting aid programs. Proposed NIH budget cuts freeze thousands of medical research projects. The Justice Department says Epstein had no client list, contradicting prior claims. Masked ICE raids spark lawsuits in L.A. State Farm faces investigation over wildfire insurance claims. And a GOP bill ends federal EV tax credits, threatening adoption.

California fire season is off to a dangerous start, with experts warning of a severe year ahead. A California man is indicted for sharing a hit list with a white supremacist terror group. Nordstrom announces it will close its Santa Monica store after 15 years, amid concerns over safety. And the L.A. City Council approves a $425 million plan to use “mansion tax” funds for affordable housing and homelessness programs.

A new Gallup poll shows national pride is dropping—especially among Democrats and Gen Z. Tesla sales continue to decline amid political backlash tied to Elon Musk. Tinder rolls out mandatory facial scan verification in California to fight scams. And despite growing divisions, Fourth of July fireworks celebrations are still happening across L.A., from the Hollywood Bowl to Catalina Island.

Sean “Diddy” Combs avoids the most serious charges in a closely watched federal case. A new poll shows Kamala Harris is a clear favorite in the California governor’s race—if she runs. Jane Fonda and other celebrities call out Amazon over treatment of pregnant warehouse workers. And Microsoft announces layoffs, joining a growing list of tech companies cutting jobs in California.

The Senate passes Trump’s sweeping tax and healthcare bill by a single vote — but it still faces a challenge in the House. Questions grow around Pam Bondi’s claim of “tens of thousands” of Epstein videos, as legal experts say there’s no evidence they exist. Apple considers outsourcing Siri’s core technology to OpenAI or Anthropic as it struggles to compete in the A.I. space. And Lululemon files a lawsuit against Costco, accusing the wholesaler of selling lookalike gear that mimics its high-end designs.

Sean “Diddy” Combs’ defense team pushes back on racketeering and trafficking charges, with legal experts saying a guilty verdict isn’t guaranteed. Meanwhile, the Trump administration accuses Harvard of failing to protect Jewish students from antisemitic abuse and warns it could lose federal funding. In California, Blue Shield faces criticism for moving its parent company out of state — a change approved quietly by regulators. And President Trump says he won’t extend a pause on global tariffs beyond July 9, urging countries to cut deals or face steep new trade penalties.

Gas prices in California are set to jump this July, with new taxes and refinery rules adding costs at the pump. Meanwhile, illegal fireworks are already lighting up L.A., raising safety and environmental concerns ahead of the Fourth of July. Across the U.S., consumers are pulling back on spending as inflation outpaces income growth, affecting travel, recreation, and more. And in the face of growing energy demands, big batteries are emerging as a key tool in preventing summer blackouts.

The Supreme Court has ruled that states can block Medicaid patients from using Planned Parenthood, reshaping access to reproductive healthcare. In federal court, Sean “Diddy” Combs’ trial wraps up as the jury prepares to deliberate charges of sex trafficking and racketeering. Meanwhile, Apple rolls out major changes to its App Store in Europe to avoid future antitrust fines, offering lower fees and more flexibility to developers. And in California, Fourth of July cookouts will cost more this year due to inflation, supply issues, and labor disruptions.

President Trump reaffirms NATO support and signals openness to aiding Ukraine if Russia resists a ceasefire. In California, lawmakers strike a $321-billion budget deal—hinging on a housing reform vote. A judge rules the state’s FAIR insurance plan illegally limited wildfire smoke claims, opening the door for thousands of homeowners to seek compensation. And Tesla’s new robotaxis draw federal scrutiny after test videos show alarming safety lapses.

A Pentagon report challenges claims that U.S. strikes destroyed Iran’s nuclear program, with experts saying the damage may only set them back a few months. A federal judge orders the Trump administration to hand over records related to military deployments in California. In housing news, Southern California sees its first year-over-year price dip since 2023. And In-N-Out sues a YouTuber for impersonating an employee and posting a prank video the company says spread false and harmful information.

President Trump announced on truth social late Monday that Israel and Iran have agreed to a ceasefire deal. Protesters across L.A. rallied against immigration raids, which caused pushback from the LAPD and implemented a downtown curfew. Hollywood may be in crisis, but top executives are still cashing in. Apple just signed a new deal with media mogul Peter Chernin’s ‘North Road Studio’ — a move that could boost its growing presence in Hollywood.

A Pasadena immigration raid is rippling across L.A., where bus ridership has dropped amid growing fear of ICE enforcement on public transportation. A new study finds that plastic bag bans and fees are making a real difference—coastal cleanups show a sharp drop in bag pollution where policies are in place. The robotaxi wars are intensifying as Waymo, Zoox, and Tesla race toward a driverless future. Microsoft is planning another wave of job cuts, this time targeting sales roles as it pivots heavily toward AI.

A former prison in California is being converted into the state’s largest migrant detention facility under a new federal contract. Businesses across the state (from farms to hotels) are voicing concern about labor shortages tied to immigration enforcement. And under federal orders, national parks are replacing language about past injustices with messaging that centers American pride, raising alarm among historians and civil rights advocates.

California braces for its most dangerous wildfire season yet, but sweeping federal cuts could leave the state exposed. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court upholds bans on gender-affirming care for trans teens, sparking fears of broader rollbacks. And in Los Angeles, immigration raids target undocumented workers while the employers who hire them continue to operate largely unchecked.

AI scammers are siphoning off millions in college financial aid, a record-breaking jewelry heist has finally led to federal indictments, and Hollywood is turning to Roblox and TikTok to reimagine movie marketing. We explore the rise of financial fraud powered by bots and stolen identities, a long-awaited breakthrough in the high-stakes Brink’s robbery, and how studios are transforming virtual worlds into box-office gold. As crime and culture collide across real and digital spaces, strange new frontiers are reshaping how people learn, steal, and sell in 2025.

A new COVID subvariant called “Nimbus” is driving a surge across California, with doctors warning of painful symptoms and weakened vaccine policies. A federal judge in Los Angeles is considering whether to take control of the city’s homelessness programs, citing mismanagement and missing data. Palisades and Altadena fire victims are suing State Farm, claiming they were grossly underinsured after devastating losses. Elon Musk’s Neuralink makes headlines for helping a monkey “see” an artificial image—pushing the limits of brain-computer tech.

A new “pay-it-forward” student loan model is gaining traction in cities like San Diego and Honolulu—offering interest-free funding with no payments due until graduates earn $50,000 a year. California’s Attorney General sues a Southern California real estate mogul, alleging widespread tenant abuse and unsafe living conditions. Toy giant Mattel teams up with OpenAI to develop AI-powered games and play experiences. And grocery workers at Kroger and Albertsons vote to authorize a strike over unfair labor practices.

Viral claims of ICE raids at school graduations and hotels in Los Angeles have been widely debunked, as officials push back against a wave of fear-fueled misinformation. In the courtroom, a federal judge is questioning Trump’s deployment of the National Guard in California, raising concerns about executive overreach and state authority. And in Austin, Tesla’s first fully driverless robotaxi signals a leap toward an autonomous, AI-powered future reflecting a nation navigating power struggles, blurred lines between fact and fiction, and the accelerating pace of technological change.

Federal agents have detained 330 immigrants in L.A. since Friday, with the White House vowing more to come. At the same time, car washes across L.A. and Orange County are the latest targets of immigration raids. Meanwhile, a violent gang war among Armenian organized crime groups is playing out in the San Fernando Valley. And in downtown Los Angeles, residents are staying committed to a walkable, vibrant lifestyle—even as the area adapts to post-pandemic shifts. This episode breaks down the major enforcement, safety, and community stories shaping the city.

Please enjoy the first episode of the latest from L.A. Times Studios, Rebuilding L.A.L.A. Times reporter Liam Dillon joins us to talk about where we are in the moment as residents assess the path forward. How are people grappling with the decision to rebuild and, ultimately, what factors are playing into those plans? Also, Altadena resident and lawyer Kelsey Szamet shares her very personal story about her efforts to get back home to the town where she was born and raised, and now lives with her own family.

Mexico’s president urges calm after immigration raids in L.A. trigger protests and fear among families. Glendale cuts ties with ICE after 18 years, citing community values. Waymo suspends downtown service after several of its robotaxis are burned during demonstrations. And Apple’s annual showcase comes as the company faces mounting challenges from AI setbacks and trade tensions.

A legal battle between a startup founder and a venture capitalist is rocking L.A.’s tech scene. Metro finally opens a long-awaited transit hub to connect travelers to LAX. Venture capital is pouring into Southern California startups, expanding far beyond AI. And wildfire victims are suing major insurers, claiming they were sold policies that left them without enough to rebuild.

California’s leading governor candidates face off over the state’s affordability crisis. President Trump reinstates a controversial travel ban impacting 12 countries. Warner Bros. Discovery cuts jobs as its cable division struggles. And Elon Musk returns focus to Tesla amid falling sales and rising pressure to deliver on key promises.

A toxic fungus smuggled into a Michigan lab sparks national security concerns. California’s $100 billion high-speed rail project hits a major roadblock as the federal government threatens to pull funding. And after a teen’s tragic death, lawmakers take a closer look at AI chatbots, pushing a new bill to make them safer for young users.

The Supreme Court turns down a challenge to assault weapon bans in states like California and Maryland. Lawmakers push to overhaul CEQA, aiming to speed up housing and infrastructure projects. Disney cuts hundreds of jobs in a continued restructuring effort. And Vietnamese American nail salon owners sue California, arguing the state’s labor law unfairly targets their community.

A new COVID subvariant is spreading in California just as the Trump administration moves to ease vaccine access. Meanwhile, one San Diego avocado farmer is battling climate change, Mexican imports, and industry politics to save California’s iconic crop. On the economic front, inflation cooled last month, but experts say new tariffs could reverse that trend. And a judge dismissed the high-profile lawsuit from Richard Montañez over the origin of Flamin’ Hot Cheetos.

The FBI says it will release video footage to prove Jeffrey Epstein died by suicide, aiming to end years of speculation. In Santa Monica, residents are taking on Waymo’s driverless taxis, blocking cars and demanding quieter streets. In fashion news, Elyse Walker announces her flagship store will reopen in 2026 at Palisades Village after losing it to the fires. And in California’s insurance market, lawsuits accuse major providers of colluding to push homeowners onto a costly state plan.

New details emerge in the federal case against Sean “Diddy” Combs, including allegations of violence and coercion. The Justice Department is investigating California schools over transgender athletes and potential Title IX violations, and tech giants like Google and Amazon are rolling out AI tools that could reshape how people shop.

President Trump threatens to cut California’s federal funding over transgender athletes. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. says COVID vaccines are no longer recommended for healthy children and pregnant women. NPR sues the Trump administration over defunding public media. And Disney will become the new home for “CoComelon,” pulling the hit preschool show from Netflix in 2027.

Southern California Edison agrees to pay $82.5 million for its role in the Bobcat Fire. In Yucaipa, 11-year-old Alisa Perales becomes the youngest community college graduate in her school’s history. Meanwhile, Disney sues YouTube over a high-profile executive hire, escalating the fight between streaming giants. And in Silver Lake, one couple spends $830,000 on a bold hillside ADU that blends luxury, fitness, and design.

Senate Republicans vote to overturn California’s clean car rules, potentially blocking the state’s 2035 gas car ban. Santa Monica Pier lands on the list of California’s dirtiest beaches again, raising health concerns. Louis Vuitton unveils plans for a striking new flagship store on Rodeo Drive designed by Frank Gehry. And SAG-AFTRA files a labor complaint against Epic Games for using AI to replicate James Earl Jones’ voice as Darth Vader in Fortnite.

House Republicans pass Trump’s sweeping tax and spending bill, but some Senate Republicans say major changes are needed. In Washington, D.C., two Israeli Embassy workers are shot and killed outside a Gaza aid event, now being investigated as an act of terror. Southern California Edison faces backlash over a proposed 10% rate hike as questions swirl over its role in recent wildfires. And in Hollywood, Google backs a new short film project that aims to reshape how audiences think about artificial intelligence.

Trump’s sweeping 1,000-page bill proposes permanent tax breaks, deep cuts to social programs, and new financial benefits for newborns. In California, $33 million in federal earthquake retrofit funding just vanished, jeopardizing safety upgrades to vulnerable buildings. And OpenAI just made a $6.5 billion deal, teaming up with former Apple design chief to build what they’re calling the future of computing.